Jack is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, and children Julie, Thomas, Jennifer (Robert), Anne (Randall); grandchildren Thomas, Michael, Kathryn, Robert, Katherine, Margaret, Nell, Hannah, Charles and Megan; great-grandchildren Matthew, Jack, Brooklyn and Gabriella and several nieces and nephews. Jack is also survived by many dear friends.
Jack was born in Port Huron, Michigan on December 11, 1928 to George and Margaret and was dearly loved by his older sisters Marian, Josephine, Elizabeth, Ruth, Anne and Agnes. He married Mary Lou Carson on September 20, 1952 and moved to Lansing.
Jack was Honorably Discharged as a Private First Class from the Marine Air Casual Squadron Eleven and from the United States Marine Corps on May 17, 1947. The skills Jack learned as an airplane mechanic were put to use and he became self-employed as a gas station and automotive shop owner. Jack’s Automotive was proudly located in the north end of Lansing for decades.
Education was important to Jack not only for his children but also for himself. He taught automotive classes at Lansing Community College and enrolled in classes at Michigan State while in his 60’s. Although he didn’t complete his degree, he treasured the experience and was amused by the fact that he was the oldest person in class.
Jack’s concern for others was always at the forefront of his experience. Even in his own difficult circumstances, he thought of others first. For more than 40 years, Jack built a foundation of life for himself and others through his commitment to Alcoholics Anonymous. His time, compassion and friendship were freely offered to those in need and that love was returned over and over again.
Jack loved his wife and family, his dogs, ice cream, Spartan football and basketball, Tiger baseball and more ice cream.
A memorial service honoring Jack’s life will be held on Friday, September 9, at noon, at St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 W. Ottawa, Lansing, Michigan, 48933, Rev. Karen C. Lewis officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jack’s name may be made to Lansing Central Alcoholics Anonymous or Nantucket Community Foundation.
rection of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Lansing, MI.
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